News for the Week of March 9, 2015 – March 15, 2015

Aero kits debuted at NOLA test – RACER reports that Scott Dixon and Will Power posted the two fastest times at testing at NOLA Motorsports Park on Saturday as teams completed the first mass test of the new aero kits. Graham Rahal had this to say after his first test: “In some areas you notice the difference the aero kit makes and others, not as much. When we talk about more downforce, typically that is higher speed so in the high speed areas, sure you can feel it but in the slower speed areas it’s not as noticeable.” – RACER – (3/15/15)

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Carlin preparing for Lights challenge – “I’ve always had a fondness for racing in the States ever since I worked out there,” says team founder and principal Trevor Carlin, “and although I ended up returning to Europe, that affection for the American motorsport scene was still there. So I was looking for that moment where circumstance meets opportunity, as they say. Well, the business in Europe has gone better than I ever could have imagined before I set it up, and it’s solid and stable. That was the circumstance sorted out; and then when the new Indy Lights car came along, there was the opportunity. And so here we are.” – RACER – (3/15/15)

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Jalopnik breaks down aero kits – Popular autos site Jalopnik has posted a thorough article breaking down what was allowed to be changed on the new Verizon IndyCar Series aero kits and comparing differences between the two kits. – Jalopnik – (3/13/15)

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Senna and Speed unwilling to race on ovals – Current Formula E drivers Bruno Senna and Scott Speed told motorsport.com that they have worked on INDYCAR deals in the past but have made it clear they will not compete on ovals due to safety concerns. Senna: “I’ve talked to a few teams but it’s always been yes, no, maybe … Nothing has really materialized, but I would be interested. Not the ovals though. It’s just not worth the risk and with my family history, I’d much rather stay with what I am familiar with.” – motorsport.com – (3/13/15)

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INDYCAR to test IMSA-like on-car LED scoring system – Curt Cavin of the Indianapolis Star reports that when testing begins this weekend INDYCAR will test an on-car LED scoring system similar to what’s been used in the Tudor United Sports Car Championship the last couple years. “IndyCar president Derrick Walker said Dallara is making what is described as a 9-by-4 inch picture frame that will be mounted on the roll hoop of each car. Ideally, the system that’s tied to official timing and scoring will be ready for use in the Indianapolis 500 in May.” – Indianapolis Star – (3/12/15)

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Bowers & Wilkins to serve as primary sponsor for BHA in ’15 – “Bryan Herta Autosport (BHA) in partnership with Bowen Motorsports are proud to announce Bowers & Wilkins has expanded their role with the team to become primary sponsor for the 2015 Verizon IndyCar Series. Bowers & Wilkins has been an associate partner of BHA since 2012 and was the team’s primary partner for the 2014 Honda Indy Toronto event. Gabby Chaves, 2014 Indy Lights Champion, was announced last month as the driver for the #98 Bowers & Wilkins Dallara-Honda. Chaves will be a leading contender for the Sunoco Rookie of the Year title in the Verizon IndyCar Series. The livery of the car will be revealed at INDYCAR’s upcoming Spring Training at Barber Motorsports Park on March 16-17.” – BHA – (3/12/15)

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DHL named “Official Express and Logistics Provider” for GP of NOLA – ” Nola Motor Host Committee today announced an agreement with DHL, the world’s leading express delivery and logistics company, that names DHL as the “Official Express and Logistics Provider” for the 2015 Indy Grand Prix of Louisiana.” More at the link. – GP of NOLA – (3/12/15)

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Aero kit liveries starting to come in – Drivers and teams are starting to post images of their new liveries on their cars fitted with the new Chevy and Honda aero kits. As always, check out our 2015 Verizon IndyCar Series livery page to check out all of the liveries from testing, social media, reveals, and races (soon!). Check out the link for new aero kit liveries for James Hinchcliffe, Ryan Hunter-Reay, James Jakes, and Graham Rahal. – OW33 – (3/12/15)

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Servia appointed director at Dragon Racing – Former Verizon IndyCar Series driver Oriol Servia has been named as “parter and managing director” at Dragon Racing. He will no longer race in the team’s Formula E program. Owner Jay Penske’s team has raced in INDYCAR in the past. – Formula E – (3/12/15)

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INDYCAR 2018: Eddie Gossage – RACER’s INDYCAR 2018 series continues with the president of Texas Motor Speedway, Eddie Gossage. Highlight: “But, at least one problem is being addressed: now all the cars don’t look alike. Now IndyCar has Aerokits2015the unenviable task of keeping the playing field even between the two makes. Nobody said their job would be easy! And, hopefully, as more manufacturers join the IndyCar field, they too will have their own look. Hopefully some fans will be pleased and we can knock one item off the list of complaints.” – RACER – (3/11/15)

Simona to drive with AA at St. Pete – Simona de Silvestro will drive for Andretti Autosport at the season opener at St. Pete. She will test with the team at the first official test at Barber next week. “We are really excited to have Simona come on board with the team for St. Pete,” said owner Michael Andretti. “She will be a great fit for the team, and hopefully we’ll be able to build on the program, eventually taking it from this race to future events and maybe even a full-season relationship. Fans should stay connected with the team to hear more about our potential future with Simona.” – Andretti Autosport – (3/11/15)

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Rays pitcher Alex Cobb to be honorary starter at St. Pete – “Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Alex Cobb is trading in his fastball for the fast lane to serve as the Honorary Starter for the 2015 Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, taking place March 27-29. As Honorary Starter, Cobb will wave the green flag for the season-opening Verizon IndyCar Series race, which begins at 3 p.m. ET on Sunday, March 29. Cobb will also participate in the pre-race ceremonies for the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.” “I am really excited about this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Cobb. “I’m starting an IndyCar race one week and Opening Day the next. Plus, it’s an honor to represent the Rays at an event that has become so important to our community and one that helps make Tampa Bay such a great place to live.” – Firestone GP – (3/11/15)

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Miller’s Mailbag 3/11/15 – RACER’s Robin Miller’s weekly fan Q&A is an excellent read as always. This is the highlight – From Michael Andretti: “Kurt did a fantastic job in the car for us in 2014. We were impressed by his performance in his first-ever Indy 500. However, we have no plans to run Kurt in 2015.” – RACER – (3/11/15)

NBCSN confirms 2015 INDYCAR broadcast team – “Lead IndyCar play-by-play commentator Leigh Diffey returns for his third consecutive season calling IndyCar on NBCSN. Former IndyCar, Cart and Champ Car driver Paul Tracy returns for his second season as race analyst, and IndyCar driver Townsend Bell, who has raced eight times at the Indianapolis 500 and won the GT Class at last year’s Rolex 24 at Daytona, is back for his third season in the booth. NBCSN’s team of IndyCar pit reporters will include Marty Snider, Robin Miller, Kelli Stavast, Jon Beekhuis, Kevin Lee, who all return for the 2015 season. Katie Hargitt joins NBC Sports Group this year for her first season as an IndyCar pit reporter.” – NBC – (3/10/15)

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CFH adds Bankers Financial Corporation as associate sponsor – “Bankers Financial Corporation (BFC) announced today an associate sponsorship of CFH Racing for the 2015 Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. The local insurance, surety and business solutions company will appear on the No. 20 car of Luca Filippi during the event, held March 27-29. This will be Bankers first sponsorship of the world-renowned race in downtown St. Petersburg, which kicks off the 2015 Verizon IndyCar Series Championship.” – “This is a great opportunity for us to support a local event and build awareness for Bankers in our hometown,” BFC Chief Marketing Officer Bill Lafontaine said. “Partnering with two great IndyCar drivers, Ed Carpenter and Sarah Fisher, and their team is an ideal way for Bankers to continue build our brand in the St. Petersburg area.” – CFH Racing – (3/10/15)

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D-A Lubricant joins RLL Racing as major associate sponsor – Lebanon, IN based D-A Lubricant Co. has joined Rahal Letterman Lanigan racing as a major associate sponsor in a multi-year deal. The company sponsored entries in the Indianapolis 500 Mile Race from 1955-1958. They will be the primary sponsor for the inaugural Indy Grand Prix of Louisiana April 10-12 at NOLA Motorsports Park. The livery can be seen here. – INDYCAR – (3/10/15)

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Three bands to perform at 2015 Carb Day concert – “For the first time at the annual Coors Light Carb Day concert, three bands will deliver an afternoon of great music at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Popular rock groups Jane’s Addiction, O.A.R. and 38 Special will perform at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, May 22, on the Turn 4 Coors Light stage in the IMS infield. The thrilling concert is free with Coors Light Carb Day admission of $30; fans wanting the closest access to the stage in the Coors Light Concert Pit can purchase a $10 upgrade.” – IMS – (3/10/15)

Coletti confirmed as driver of No. 4 at KV – Italian Stefano Coletti will drive the No. 4 Chevy for KV Racing Technology full-time in 2015. “It’s a great championship and the competition is very high,” Coletti said. “When I tested with KV Racing Technology at NOLA a few weeks ago, there was a great atmosphere and the whole team really welcomed me, so I can’t wait to get to Indianapolis and start working with the No. 4 crew and getting to know everyone better.” – INDYCAR – (3/9/15)

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St. Pete race teams with two local landmarks for promotions – The Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg has announced a partnership with a local museum and professional soccer team for promotional efforts before, during, and after their race. The Dali Museum will host the official race welcome party and the Tampa Bay Rowdies will host interactive games during the race weekend and help coordinate the track build. – Firestone GP – (3/9/15)

Coletti to drive 2nd car at KV? – Italia Racing claims Italian Stefano Coletti will be confirmed as Sebastien Bourdais’ teammate in the second car at KV Racing. Coletti tested with the team at NOLA Motorsports Park. – Italia Racing – (3/9/15)

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Honda aero kits to be unveiled Monday – Per a tweet from their own Twitter page the Honda road/street/short oval aero kit will be unveiled on Monday, March 9th. “.@IndyCar off-season can make anyone dizzy. Tune-in March 9th for a clear image of the #HPDAeroKit. #HondaRacing” – @HondaRacing_HPD – (3/9/15)

CFH Racing gets new sign at Speedway shop – CFH Racing had a new sign installed at their Speedway shop on Friday as they continue their transition to one unified team. Picture at the link. Looks great! – CFH Racing – (3/6/15)

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INDYCAR 2018: iRacing’s David Phillips – RACER’s INDYCAR 2018 series continues with the iRacing’s David Phillips. Phillips offers an exciting view into what “sim racing” could do to put INDYCAR in a unique position in the racing world. “Believe me, I’m no fan of IndyCar’s seven-month off-season. But what if there was an online IndyCar race streamed on October, November, December, January and/or February week nights with a handful of “real” IndyCar drivers competing against the world’s top sim racers? What if those races featured exclusive fields of a dozen or more “real” racers (perhaps including competitors from the IndyCar ladder system) in a “Winter IndyCar Online Racing Series”?” – RACER – (3/6/15)

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IMS unveils 2015 500 ticket – The 2015 Indianapolis 500 Mile Race ticket was unveiled on Wednesday featuring 2014 winner Ryan Hunter-Reay. RHR was unable to make it to the ceremony due to the birth of his second son. Picture at the link. – IMS – (3/6/15)

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RHR welcomes birth of his second son – Ryan Hunter-Reay and wife Beccy gave birth to their second son on Wednesday. Ryan Hunter-Reay’s likeness will be unveiled on the 2015 Indianapolis 500 ticket later on Wednesday evening. Picture at the link. – Ryan Hunter-Reay – (3/5/15)

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Arrow to sponsor SPM/Hinch No. 5 – “Schmidt Peterson Motorsports (SPM) proudly announced today that Denver-based technology company Arrow Electronics will be the primary sponsor of the No. 5 car driven by James Hinchcliffe in the 2015 Verizon IndyCar Series.” See the livery SPM. – here – (3/5/15)